Celebrating a rich history of progress

The Letšeng mine is famous for the production of large, high value, exceptional white diamonds, making it the highest dollar per carat kimberlite diamond mine in the world. Since Gem Diamonds’ acquisition of Letšeng in 2006, the mine has produced four of the 20 largest white gem-quality diamonds ever recovered.

Seeking to showcase the uniqueness of the mine and inspire interest in the industry, on 6 May 2016, we opened our Letšeng Diamond Discovery Centre. The opening ceremony was attended by His Majesty King Letsie III.

Addressing the gathering, Letšeng’s Chief Executive Officer, Mazvi Maharasoa, said: “The primary objective of the centre is to promote learning and enhance the public’s understanding of Lesotho’s diamond resources in a global context. It puts the diamond mining industry at centre-stage and details the industry’s contribution to Lesotho’s long-term economic growth.” The centre illustrates details of the diamond mining industry that many members of the public may not have previously been privy to, demystifying the industry for residents of Lesotho. The centre details the diamond’s journey, from initial diamond discovery to the sales and marketing of the product and helps enhance visitors’ understanding of the positive role of the mine in the economy of Lesotho.

The Lesotho Minister of Mining, Lebohang Thotanyana, was in attendance at the centre’s opening ceremony and had the following to say: “As government, we see this facility as one of the major steps by the diamond mining industry in helping to achieve the Mining and Minerals Policy objective of transparency in all aspects of administering and managing the country’s minerals sector.”

The Minister also highlighted that the centre would serve as a source of inspiration for aspiring and future professionals in the diamond mining industry. “This is very important because the sector is faced with a great shortage of skills in the industry.”

We are excited about what the centre can bring to the people of Lesotho as well as the value it adds for tourism in the area. Anybody travelling through the area is encouraged to visit the Diamond Discovery Centre, no matter what their interest in mining, and learn something new about Lesotho’s diamonds.

Replicas of the four biggest diamonds recovered by Letšeng are on display at the Letšeng Diamond Discovery Centre.		Interactive display at the Letšeng Diamond Discovery Centre.